Every maker has an origin story, and for Bathurst woodworker Adam Kenny of Nutshell Woodworks, his begins in an unexpected place: a university dorm room, surrounded not by sawdust and hand tools, but textbooks and looming exams. It was during one of those familiar moments of student procrastination that he fell down a YouTube rabbit hole.
Over Christmas break that same year, Adam put that new curiosity into action. Borrowing tools from neighbours and gathering whatever equipment he could, he built his first cutting board. The process clicked immediately. Not long after, he began investing slowly in his own tools, accumulating equipment piece by piece, year by year. Now, eight years later, what started as a study break has evolved into a woodworking business that takes him across the maritimes and beyond.
Building Nutshell Woodworks
A key moment in Adam’s journey came through a university branding course. Tasked with developing a full brand identity, he created what would eventually become his company: Nutshell Woodworks. The name resonated, stuck, and would later serve as the foundation for his business.
By the time he finished university and moved back home to Bathurst, Adam was already making and selling cutting boards. Local demand was strong enough to keep him busy, and soon he found himself expanding into larger markets. What started at the local farmers’ market quickly grew into major Maritime craft shows such as Christmas at the Forum in Halifax, Christmas at the Coliseum in Moncton, and multiple high-traffic events in Fredericton. Eventually, his work took him even further, One of a Kind in Toronto and Christmas at the Glacier, Newfoundland’s largest craft show.
Today, Adam’s year follows the rhythm of the craft show circuit: summer events, followed by a major surge of Christmas markets that require months of preparation. Spring becomes his quieter season, dedicated to custom projects and catching his breath after the hectic winter.
Discovering ThermalWood Canada
Adam’s connection to ThermalWood Canada began the same way many partnerships do, through a recommendation. While searching for quality hardwood early in his woodworking career, he learned about a promising lumber supplier in the industrial park. That first visit introduced him to ThermalWood’s team, and he has been using their product ever since.
For cutting boards in particular, thermally modified maple proved to be a game-changer. Its exceptional stability, resistance to moisture, and durability make it ideal for heavy kitchen use. The 185°C and 200°C cooks also offer a rich range of tones, giving Adam the contrast and beauty typically associated with exotic woods—while still allowing him to proudly say he uses local maple.
Giving Back Through Teaching
Beyond his business, Adam plays a meaningful role in youth education. Through Superior Middle School’s 2 to 3 program, he teaches students how to make cutting boards, guiding them through hands-on craftsmanship in eight-to-ten-week sessions. It’s a chance to pass on skills to the next generation and inspire the same spark that first drew him in.Whether in the shop, at a bustling craft show, or in a classroom full of curious students, Adam’s story is proof that passion can grow from the most unexpected places, and with dedication, can build something special.